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Pennsylvania Criminal Lawyer

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In its most broad definition, a crime is the breach of one or more laws, regulations or rules which a governing body or authority may impose a punishment. Stated another way, a crime is any act, or omission of an act, in violation of a public law forbidding it, or commanding it. Some crimes are committed when an action is taken a purse is stolen, a woman is murdered whereas others are committed when the criminal fails to take an action, say by not paying taxes. There are even some instances in which the mere planning of an action is criminal in nature, as in the case of conspiracy.

If you have been accused of a crime in the state of Pennsylvania, whether you are guilty or not, you will need to hire a Pennsylvania criminal lawyer or attorney to help you with your case. Pennsylvania criminal lawyers and attorneys represent individuals who have been charged with crimes by representing them at every stage of the criminal case, including arguing their cases in courts of law.

The criminal justice system provides not only for laws and the enforcement of those laws by public officials, but also for prosecution by the government of people who have committed crimes, or who are suspected of having committed a crime. The other kind of legal case is a civil case, which involves individuals and organizations who feel they have been victimized or wronged, and who are seeking resolution, and restitution, through the court system. In a criminal case, the state, through a prosecutor, initiates the suit, while in a civil case the victim, or the victim's family in a wrongful death case, brings the suit.

There are two kinds of crimes, felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies are the more serious of the two, and include rape, arson, aggravated assault, grand theft and murder. Misdemeanors include crimes such as prostitution, assault, petty theft, tax evasion, vandalism and disorderly conduct. Some crimes, such as fraud or damage to property, can be either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the degree.

The punishments for criminal acts vary widely depending on many factors: the crime itself, the criminal record (or lack thereof) of the person who committed the crime, the jurisdiction in which the crime is committed, and the individual vagaries of the sentencing judge. There are precedents and guidelines which are generally followed, however. Felonies generally require incarceration of a period longer than one year, and in a federal or state prison. Misdemeanors may require incarceration of less than a year, in a local jail, or possibly no incarceration at all. Other punishments may include fines, community service, treatment or rehabilitation, probation, and the suspension of certain licenses or privileges.

If you are suing a convicted criminal for damages resulting from a crime, you will need to hire a civil lawyer or attorney. Even if the person was not convicted and you want to sue them for damages, you should hire a Pennsylvania civil lawyer or attorney.

If you have been involved in a crime, whether guilty or not, and you have been arrested, you should request an attorney or contact a private criminal lawyer or attorney immediately. There are many things to look for when hiring a Pennsylvania lawyer or attorney. A good criminal attorney will be familiar with state and federal laws, as well as any precedents which may be applicable in your case.

Criminal attorneys will also be familiar with Pennsylvania court customs and procedures. They will research and investigate all aspects of your case, and determine the best course of action to pursue. If your case goes to trial they will prepare extensively for the court appearance, and bring all their expertise and skill to bear when it comes time to argue in front of the jury.

If you are ready to contact a Pennsylvania criminal lawyer or attorney, visit the American Bar Association. The ABA features a lawyer locater, which can help you search for a criminal lawyer or attorney in Pennsylvania. Access to the site is free. There is no such thing as a minor criminal charge. Any misdemeanor conviction can damage your record and potentially limit your employment opportunities. Felony charges can result in significant periods of incarceration and probation. The United States guarantees that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. Get the defense you need and hire a Pennsylvania criminal lawyer attorney. Your future may be at stake.